A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Mystic vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Mystic or Chicago?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mystic and Chicago. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mystic

Mystic is a laid back, charming, and quaint town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Mystic and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mystic or Chicago?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Mystic, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mystic is more popular for its beaches. Mystic is well known for its New England charm and local character. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Mystic different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago and Mystic. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mystic or Chicago?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Mystic offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Mystic is not a theatre destination.

Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Mystic is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Mystic or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Mystic. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Mystic has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Mystic is not a live music destination.

Chicago is known as a music capital around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Mystic is not a live music destination.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Mystic is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Mystic is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Is the Shopping Better in Mystic or Chicago?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chicago. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Mystic is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Mystic does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Chicago is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Mystic does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Mystic does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Mystic does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Chicago is very family-friendly. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Mystic is a very kid-friendly town. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Couples?

Mystic and Chicago both notable destinations for a couple.

Mystic is a nice destination for couples. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

Chicago makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mystic is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Mystic is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Mystic is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Mystic is not popular with students.

Is Mystic or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

Is Mystic or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

Mystic is generally not very walkable. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

For even more information, also check out Is Mystic Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Mystic?

How long in Mystic or Chicago?

In either Mystic or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Mystic because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mystic, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Mystic. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Mystic. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Mystic if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chicago.

One day in Mystic or Chicago?

In Mystic, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Mystic or Chicago?

In Mystic, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mystic has to offer.

Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Mystic or Chicago?

Mystic is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Mystic or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mystic. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mystic. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the vibrant big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mystic and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Mystic much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mystic would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mystic and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Mystic.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mystic Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mystic or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 570 times larger than the population of Mystic. When comparing the sizes of Mystic and Chicago, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Mystic or Chicago?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mystic or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Mystic during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Mystic for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Mystic is generally around the same temperature as Chicago. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 73°F (23°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mystic. In the summer, Mystic often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Mystic gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Mystic usually gets less rain in July than Chicago. Mystic gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mystic or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mystic and Chicago. Many visitors come to Mystic in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Mystic is cooler than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Mystic, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mystic usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Mystic gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mystic usually receives more rain than Chicago. Mystic gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mystic or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mystic as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Mystic for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Chicago can be very cold. Mystic can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Mystic is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mystic in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Mystic often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Mystic gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Mystic usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Mystic gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mystic or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Mystic are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Mystic because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In April, Mystic is generally cooler than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 48°F (9°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mystic. Mystic usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during spring. Mystic gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In April, Mystic usually receives less rain than Chicago. Mystic gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Mystic